New Programs Offered at the Minnesota State Capitol During Renovation this Fall

The Minnesota State Capitol is undergoing a multi-year renovation project that includes restoring and updating the grand building. New programs this fall will help the public learn about the history of the building and the people who worked there.

The popular Capitol Construction Tour has been revamped to include additional information about the current renovation project. The new Capitol Re-Construction Tour is offered the second Saturday of every month through April, except October. In October, guests are encouraged to attend the History in Session program which features a construction tour.

The Minnesota State Capitol building is a constantly-evolving archive of Minnesota history. The current repair and restoration work will help preserve these stories for generations to come. Get an in-depth look at the history of its original construction, completed in 1905, as well as the work being done today to save this historical and architectural treasure. Guided tours run 60 to 90 minutes.

History in Session

History in Session is a new series of programs highlighting key Capitol themes including women's history, Capitol construction and the Civil War. Presented as lectures, discussion and musical performances, the programs are offered on Saturday afternoons in September, October and November. Each program is followed by light refreshments in the Capitol's historic Rathskeller Cafe.

Join Lori Sturdevant, a Star Tribune editorial writer and columnist, for a look into the life and work of Rosalie Wahl, the first woman to serve as a Justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court. Following the discussion, Sturdevant will sign copies of her new book, "Her Honor: Rosalie Wahl and the Minnesota Women's Movement."

Labor Historian Randall Croce, creator of the documentary "Who Built Our Capitol?," shares the results of his research about the men, materials and methods used in the construction of this spectacular building. While the film will not be shown, the program does include a brief construction history tour of the Capitol. Copies of the documentary will be available for sale.

Enjoy a mix of storytelling and songs of the Civil War performed by the Hillgrove Ensemble. The three-person group appear in period costume as they present musical themes from the 1860s.

About the Minnesota State Capitol

The Capitol is north of downtown St. Paul at 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., accessible from I-94 and I-35E. It is open for free guided tours year-round, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 3 p.m. Sundays. The last tour leaves one hour before closing. Reservations are recommended for special events. Call 651-296-2881 for more information.

The Society’s calendar of events is posted online at www.mnhs.org/calendar. The website also has information about all of the Society’s programs, museums and historic sites.

The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. The Society collects, preserves and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, the Society preserves our past, shares our state’s stories and connects people with history.

The Minnesota Historical Society is supported in part by its Premier Partners: Xcel Energy and Explore Minnesota Tourism.